Jump directly to the content
VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE

Keith Vaz must step down as an MP if he has lost his voters’ confidence, Theresa May declares

PM intervenes in spiralling scandal while at the G20 summit, but stressed decisions on his future were a matter for him

DISGRACED Keith Vaz must step down as an MP if he has lost his voters’ confidence, Theresa May has declared.

The PM intervened in the spiralling scandal while at the G20 summit in China, saying Parliamentarians have a duty to their constituents but stressed decisions on his future were a matter for Mr Vaz himself.

British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks at a press conference held at the end of the G-20 summit
6
British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks at a press conference held at the end of the G-20 summitCredit: AP
Labour MP Keith Vaz leaves his home this lunchtime
6
Labour MP Keith Vaz leaves his home this lunchtimeCredit: Getty Images

It was being seen as a thinly veiled hint for the embattled Labour grandee to resign as the powerful Home Affairs Committee chairman as well as the House of Commons.

Mrs May repeatedly clash with Mr Vaz while Home Secretary for six years, who is fighting for his political career after allegations he paid two male escorts for sex.

The 57-year-old is facing a possible investigation by Commons sleaze watchdogs, as well as the Charity Commission saying they could get involved after claims money was paid into an account by a man linked to a charity he set up.

He is facing a potential investigation by the Commons sleaze watchdog
6
He is facing a potential investigation by the Commons sleaze watchdogCredit: PA
But the PM says any decision on his future should be up to him
6
But the PM says any decision on his future should be up to himCredit: EPA

Asked if the Leicester MP had fallen below the standards required of an MP, the Prime Minister said: "I have always been clear throughout my political career that what is important for people is that they feel they are able to have confidence in their politicians.

"And that’s what I think we all have a duty to provide to those who elect us.

RELATED STORIES:

Disgraced Labour MP Keith Vaz shrugs off rent boy scandal to make brazen Commons appearance
HAS HE NO SHAME?

Disgraced Labour MP Keith Vaz shrugs off rent boy scandal to make brazen Commons appearance

Pressure mounts on Keith Vaz as source says shamed MP hopes rent boy scandal will 'wash away'
WHEN WILL HE GO?

Pressure mounts on Keith Vaz as source says shamed MP hopes rent boy scandal will 'wash away'

Keith Vaz could face investigation by Commons sleaze watchdog over male escort allegations
VAZ SLEAZE INQUIRY

Keith Vaz could face investigation by Commons sleaze watchdog over male escort allegations

Celebs and MPs come out in support of Keith Vaz in aftermath of male prostitutes scandal
'We've all got grubby secrets'

Celebs and MPs come out in support of Keith Vaz in aftermath of male prostitutes scandal

"What Keith does is for Keith, and any decisions he wishes to make are for him.

"But I think overall what people look for is confidence in their politicians."

He is accused of paying for sex with two male prostitutes at a flat in London
6
He is accused of paying for sex with two male prostitutes at a flat in LondonCredit: Getty Images
Mrs May said Mr Vaz must step down as an MP if he has lost his voters’ confidence
6
Mrs May said Mr Vaz must step down as an MP if he has lost his voters’ confidenceCredit: Reuters

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said he would write to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards regarding his conduct.

But the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn indicated there was no need for Mr Vaz to stand down from the party.

He said: "Well, he hasn't committed any crime that I know of. As far as I'm aware it is a private matter, and I will obviously be talking to Keith."

His challenger for Labour leadership, Owen Smith, declined to comment on the controversy surrounding Mr Vaz, who nominated him for the contest.

Topics
YOU MIGHT LIKE
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
MORE FOR YOU